18 OUR 2019 AMBITION QUEENSLAND IS STRUCTURED, CAPABLE AND RESOURCED TO OPTIMISE THE ACCESS, POPULARITY AND COMMERCIALISATION OF NETBALL ACROSS QUEENSLAND.

HOW ARE WE PROGRESSING TOWARDS OUR 2019 AMBITION?

2 OUR PURPOSE: We are a unifying leader responsible for the growth, sustainability and success of netball. OUR VISION: To become a world-leading sports organisation, respected for transforming lives through Netball. 3 CHAIR'S REPORT IT IS WITH GREAT PLEASURE THAT I DELIVER THIS REPORT TO YOU, THE MEMBERS, FOR 2018, A both on and off the court, is essential to how our sport is perceived by sponsors, participants YEAR WITH MANY HIGHLIGHTS. and families.

We started early with the Leaders Conference, where we continued to build numbers and where The Sapphire Series represents a step change in our approach to our player pathway, in that Wayne Goldsmith introduced us all to the mythical ‘Deirdre’ who has now become a much- it is intended to create a real stepping stone for our players to . It is loved icon of our sport. The feedback from members at the workshops around our ideal state very gratifying to sense the real excitement that is building in our community throughout demonstrated clearly that you were ready to embrace a new delivery model. Queensland for this competition, and it is a testament to the hard work of everyone involved.

A focussed stakeholder engagement effort by Catherine and her team over some months Netball Queensland has been active on the national stage, and continues to contribute actively culminated in the Members meeting in October, at which members emphatically voted in to Netball ’s agenda and demonstrate leadership in the national environment at both favour of continuing to develop the BIOME model. board and management levels.

The move from our own building to a purpose built, 5000 seat stadium represents an entirely I would like to thank my fellow directors for their hard work and support over the last year. new business model for Netball Queensland, and the risks and potential rewards of this They are a dedicated and immensely capable group who give their time willlingly and tirelessly venture are taken very seriously by board and management. In preparation for this, the Board for the benefit of our sport. They have shown support and loyalty to me and to Catherine at all undertook a market review to ensure that the sale of the Moorooka property achieved the best times, while always being prepared to challenge conventional thinking and to be open to new possible return. This was successful, with completion of a sale at a substantially higher value ideas. than previously estimated, occurring earlier this month. I also thank Catherine for her drive, energy and dedication to the job at hand. She is an At many times throughout the year, Board and management reflected on the contribution exceptional and inspirational CEO, who continually challenges the Board with new thinking and made by past board members of Netball Queensland to achieve this wonderful result. It is pushes us to be better. due to the fortitude and dedication of these members that we were free of debt and able to I would also like to thank our staff for their hard work and dedication to Netball Queensland. convert a substantial asset into liquid funds, with a strong balance sheet. We truly stand on the It is not easy working in a not for profit membership organisation, where you are at the behest shoulders of those who have gone before us. of all members as well as external stakeholders. Please remember that when you are frustrated It is an appropriate point to recognise the challenges posed by change at any time in an with MyNetball and feel the need to vent! organisation’s life cycle. The decisions made by those earlier board members, which have Finally I would like to thank you, the members, for working with us to create a better future shaped our current state, were challenging and in some cases, were made with just one vote for netball. Never has it been so important to remember that if you are standing still, you are separating the ‘yes’ from the ‘no’. It required tremendous courage to make those decisions, actually going backwards. We are committed to positioning our great sport so that it continues just as what we are doing now requires courage and belief in a vision. That is the true test of to be the sport of choice for women and girls, transforming lives through netball. That means leadership, to lead in times of uncertainty and doubt. we have to be prepared to be uncomfortable, having confidence that actions we take now will In the performance space, the Firebirds were successful in making the top four, having ensure the future for all those little girls who follow us. welcomed back from maternity leave. Although Laura has now retired from the Thankyou. playing group, she continues to be an important part of our community and a wonderful ambassador for us and for our sport. JANE SEAWRIGHT I cannot over-emphasise the importance of the Firebirds to our brand and our revenue. In an Chair era where young people are searching for role models and heroes, and in a fiercely competitive space where netball is fighting for position with other sports, the role played by our Firebirds,

4 OUR PURPOSE: We are a unifying leader responsible for the growth, sustainability and success of netball. OUR VISION: To become a world-leading sports organisation, respected for transforming lives through Netball. 5 FROM THE CEO The 2018 - YEAR OF UNITING FLAMES

Round 10 of the Suncorp Super Netball Season in 2018 was the Inaugural Indigenous Round. An The 2018 Suncorp Super Netball Season was preceded by a home , here incredible young artist, Rachael Sarra designed the Firebirds dress. Rachel is not only a proud on the Gold Coast. For most this would have been a once in a lifetime opportunity to see world Goreng Goreng woman she is also a proud netballer. She understands our history, our culture class athletic performance on the world stage. I was incredibly proud to be a Queenslander and our vision for netball. Rachel created Uniting Flames, an artwork that goes well beyond and proud of our Diamonds team. Our Lorna Jane had a much improved the design for our Indigenous Round. It captured the essence of our purpose to transform season and played some outstanding netball. The highs like beating the undefeated Fever at lives through netball. The pages of this Annual Report will showcase some of the work that is home and in Perth were outweighed by the curse of one-goal losses, including our Semi-Final. transforming the lives of participants, coaches, officials, volunteers, fans and administrators. The Australian Diamonds suffered the same fate in their Grand Final match against England losing by one goal in the final minutes of the game. In many ways 2018 was a period of learning and growth. Growth in our participation numbers, our capacity, our broadcast audience and the general profile of netball in the marketplace. We The Netball world said goodbye to a Queensland Firebirds legend and Diamonds Captain in are relentless in finding ways to support more people across our diverse and vast communities. Laura Geitz, and welcomed to the world stage a new GA star in Gretel Tippet. Gretel shone on In 2018 we delivered education to over 2,000 coaches across Queensland and almost 300 the court for the Firebirds (playing her 50th game in the purple dress) and for the Australian coaches attended NetSetGo workshops. 313 umpires achieved national badging and Netball Diamonds alongside team-mate (Vice Captain). I want to congratulate Gabi, Queensland Bench Officials Zac Dawes and Katrina Taylor were appointed to officiate at the Gretel, Laura, Roselee (Assistant Coach) and Nannette Rigoni (Manager) on their international Commonwealth Games. achievements this year. Also, the breakout seasons of Kim Jenner and Tara Hinchliffe resulted in their inclusion in the Diamonds program squads and the Australian Fast Five team. I am very Official total registrations exceeded 70,000 this year, 712 participants attended holiday clinics, proud that the Queensland Firebirds have recruited home-grown Queensland talent, providing 800 athletes registered for the Emerging Talent Program (ETP) and 252 teams entered the State the opportunity for our players that have come through our system to shine on the world stage. Age Championship. I am very proud of the opportunities we provide for netballers in our State. Special mention to who played her 150th game for the Firebirds and Jenny From NetSetGO and club competition for all ages, to the State Age Championship, Primary Brazel who clocked up 50 games as Firebirds Assistant Coach. Schools Cup, the Emerging Talent Program, 16U Championship, Queensland Premier League, the Cup and Shield, the Queensland State Netball League (QSNL)/Sapphire Series, Our H2 and H3 conversations this year have been focused on how we strengthen and better the Queensland Fusion in the Australian Netball League (ANL), State Representative Teams, the support the netball system, particularly for future growth, and how we create unity across Lorna Jane Queensland Firebirds through to our 65+ years Walking Netball program. We want our membership to improve efficiency, collaboration and the customer experience for every people to start playing and keep playing - for life. Every year we are continually reviewing and netballer. improving these opportunities to provide everyone with access to Netball. COMPANIES DON’T FAIL BECAUSE OF CHANGES IN THE ENVIRONMENT, THEY FAIL BECAUSE THEIR LEADERS One area where we had a lot of work to do was for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ARE EITHER UNWILLING OR INCAPABLE OF DEALING WITH SAID CHANGE. IN FACT, COMPANIES DON’T CHANGE. community. We began our creative process back in 2016 and from this Diamond Spirit was PEOPLE DO. WHICH MEANS THAT TO STAY COMPETITIVE IN TODAY’S ENVIRONMENT WARRANTS NOT ONLY THE born. It remains a passion for me and in 2018 we were able to engage over 2,500 students SKILL AND WILL TO ADAPT TO CHANGE BUT ALSO THE FORESIGHT TO ANTICIPATE IT. -JEFF BOSS across seven remote communities in playing netball. Additionally, 55 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander coaches achieved Foundation coach accreditation. For the first indigenous round in the history of Netball’s national league, 16 young women from the seven remote CATHERINE CLARK communities involved in our Diamond Spirit program, travelled to the Gold Coast for a life- changing Leadership Camp. It was fantastic to meet this amazing group of girls and their Chief Executive Officer families. These are great results however we are working very hard to secure ongoing funding so Diamond Spirit can continue to grow.

6 OUR VISION: To become a world-leading sports organisation, respected for transforming lives through Netball. UNITING FLAMES

You are more than the seven players on the court at one time.

Every step or pass you make, is ignited by those who have come

before you and the people who show support. It is the strength in

diversity that fuels unity, maintaining balance and harmony on and

off the court. You are vessels for change, awareness and equality,

each pass connecting different stories and identities. Your roots

strong in the Queensland landscapes. With every game you bring

fire, and at every final buzzer, comes new growth.

– RACHAEL SARRA

OUR VISION: To become a world-leading sports organisation, respected for transforming lives through Netball. 7 PRINCIPAL PARTNER MAJOR PARTNERS

OFFICIAL PARTNERS

8 OUR PURPOSE: We are a unifying leader responsible for the growth, sustainability and success of netball. 2,000+ COACHES 313 BADGED FAST 5 TEAM 72,636 DEVELOPED OR TOTAL REGISTRATIONS UMPIRES KIM JENNER (+17%) ACCREDITED TARA HINCHLIFFE NANNETTE RIGONI

DIAMOND SPIRIT WALKING NETBALL QUEENSLAND TARA 2500 STUDENTS FROM PROGRAM LAUNCHED PREMIER LEAGUE HINCHLIFFE 7 REMOTE COMMUNITIES 118 TEAMS WORLD YOUTH CUP 43 ASSOCIATIONS PLAYER OF THE YEAR

QSNC NETBALL 28% INCREASE NISSAN STATE AGE FIREBIRDS COURTS IN AVERAGE FIREBIRDS CHAMPIONSHIP HOLIDAY CLINICS HOME GAME ATTENDANCE 275,625 PIECES OF 2300+ PLAYERS 712 PLAYERS MAPLEWOOD 43 ASSOCIATIONS 200+ OFFICIALS

OUR VISION: To become a world-leading sports organisation, respected for transforming lives through Netball. 9 To achieve our 2019 Ambition, this Strategic Plan is built around five Pillars: 1. PARTICIPATION AND DEVELOPMENT 2. HIGH PERFORMANCE 3. GOVERNANCE AND DELIVERY 4. COMMERCIAL AND MARKETING 5. STATE HOME OF NETBALL

Within each Pillar, the Focus Areas and specific Goals for the next three years are defined. Against these Focus Areas, we have identified Key Activities and the STRATEGIC mechanisms for measuring performance. The Goals will be assessed against pre-defined performance targets (KPIs) specified in underlying annual Operations Plans. PILLARS This level of clarity and accountability will drive continuous improvement.

10 OUR PURPOSE: We are a unifying leader responsible for the growth, sustainability and success of netball. 05 01 STATE HOME PARTICIPATION OF NETBALL AND DEVELOPMENT

FIVE PILLARS 04 02 COMMERCIAL HIGH & MARKETING PERFORMANCE

03 GOVERNANCE AND DELIVERY

OUR VISION: To become a world-leading sports organisation, respected for transforming lives through Netball. 11 STRATEGIC PILLAR PARTICIPATION 01 AND DEVELOPMENT

12 OUR PURPOSE: We are a unifying leader responsible for the growth, sustainability and success of netball. PARTICIPATION AND DEVELOPMENT • 14 coach developers across Queensland- minimum of one Coach • Diamond Spirit continues to have a positive impact within schools Developer in each major regional city. and communities, providing participation pathways to students living An ongoing measure of our success is ensuring that all those who in some of Queensland’s most remote communities. In 2018 over have touch points with netball especially the players, enjoy their • 55 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander coaches achieved Foundation 2500 students across 7 remote communities were provided with some netball experience at a level that suits their skills and lifestyle. More coach accreditation. amazing opportunities to play netball. Undoubtably one of the major participation by more people from all walks of life, over a longer highlights was the Inaugural Diamond Spirit Leadership Camp which STRATEGIC FOCUS AREA 2: ATTRACT, NURTURE AND RETAIN PARTICIPANTS period, is a key focus of ours. Below we outline some of the major brought 16 girls from 7 remote communities to the Suncorp Super achievements of 2018 which seek to extend the reach of netball into 2018 saw the introduction of 8 Development Officers including staff Netball Indigenous round on the Gold Coast. An additional highlight our community. based in Cairns, Townsville and Rockhampton. This provided more saw 10 students from Cairns State High attend the between Australia and played in Townsville. STRATEGIC FOCUS AREA 1: CREATE A WORLD-CLASS COACHING ENVIRONMENT touchpoints with Associations, Clubs and Schools across Queensland to support the growth and sustainability of netball. • Netball Queensland also launched our Educate hubs in 2018 at Growing the network of Coach Developers and taking more Bremer State High and Cairns State High. Funded by Education Accreditation courses and workshops into regional areas was the • Total Registrations: 72,636. 17% increase on last year. Including Queensland the Educate program provides educational and focus for 2018. In total, 40 Associations from Brisbane to Cairns and 15,653 NetSetGO. mentoring support to 100 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander throughout the western corridor including to Mt Isa, Longreach and • 297 Coaches attended NetSetGO practical coaching workshops students from year 7-12. St George hosted these development opportunities. Having more Coach Developers available as well as encouraging Associations to • Holiday clinics - a total of 712 young players took part in the clinics • Diamond Spirit has received wonderful support from Queensland work together in clusters, provides greater access to both formal and and enjoyed getting up close and personal with the Firebirds. State Government over the past 3 years and we look forward to informal coach development opportunities. Commonwealth Games in the April holidays reduced the number of continuing our strong relationship as the program continues to grow clinics held during this period. into 2019 and beyond. • More than 2000 coaches attended accreditation courses and workshops across the state.

OUR VISION: To become a world-leading sports organisation, respected for transforming lives through Netball. 13 PARTICIPATION AND DEVELOPMENT (CONTINUED..) QUEENSLAND STATE NETBALL LEAGUE 3 divisions at the Hibiscus Stadium provided both social and competitive elements for participants ranging from 18 – 64 years. STRATEGIC FOCUS AREA 3: ENSURE COMPETITION OPPORTUNITIES MEET 2018 saw 12 Licenses compete across four divisions. This was the first PARTICIPATION DEMAND year that the Division 2 Country was contested with Marlin Coast 2 seasons made up the year; with 58 teams in participating in Season Marlins, Magnetic North Steelcats, Whitsunday Sharks, Capricorn 1 and 52 teams in Season 2. In 2018 Netball Queensland continued to provide experiences for its Claws and Wide Bay Thundercats competing. The remaining Licenses participants by offering a variety of competitions to enable player, competed across South East Queensland in Division 1, Division 2 and Survey results returned an 80% satisfaction rate among team captains coaches and officials a level which they can suitably participate in and 19 and Under. for the overall social netball experience and 85% satisfaction with continue their growth in Netball. Netball Queensland staff performance. • Division 1: Champions - Brisbane North Cougars defeating Goodna STATE AGE CHAMPIONSHIP Services Brisbane Lions. WALKING NETBALL

In 2018, Ipswich Netball Association partnered with Netball • Division 2 City: Champions - Goodna Services Brisbane Lions The phenomena of walking netball hit Queensland mid-way through Queensland and the Ipswich City Council to host the Nissan State Age defeating Bond University Jaguars. the year, much to the delight of many past, present and new to netball Championship. This event was delivered over four days, hosting over players. Pilot programs were run in several Associations and indoor • Division 2 Country: Champions - Marlin Coast Marlins defeating 250 teams and making it the largest Netball Queensland grassroots Whitsunday Sharks. sport facilities around Brisbane to gauge interest and test playing State event in history. Netball Queensland would like to recognise formats. Rhonda Newton oversaw these programs and in doing so the efforts of the Ipswich Netball Association State Age Committee in • 19U: Champions - Brisbane North Cougars defeating Golden South brought a lot of joy and smiles to many who got back out or ventured representing and leading their community and volunteers throughout Jaguars. onto the court for the first time. the preparation and delivery of the event. SCHOOL-BASED COMPETITIONS OFFICIALS DEVELOPMENT • 252 teams competed from 44 Associations. Umpire coaching was Netball Queensland’s focus in 2018. Michelle • 6 Boys teams competed in our inaugural boy’s competition 398 teams from across Queensland participated in the Vicki Wilson Cup qualifying events to gain a place in the finals for either the Cup or Phippard, ’s Emerging Talent Umpire Coach travelled to Brisbane providing valuable insight and information to NQ’s umpire • 1724 Games played over four days. Shield divisions. The Vicki Wilson Cup was won by Somerset College and the Vicki Wilson Shield was won by Palm Beach Currumbin State coaches through workshop and practical umpiring feedback sessions. High School. Former Queenslander and NA National Assistant Umpire Coach, QUEENSLAND PREMIER LEAGUE - QPL Raechel Richards, supported our umpire coaches during State Age Championships with coaching strategies and techniques. The QPL in 2018 was run over 6 Zones which spanned the entire state. This year the Primary School Cup headed out of the South East corner for the first time, hosted by the Bundaberg Netball Association. With the assistance of Netball Queensland, a volunteer Committee • 3 Netball Queensland umpires were selected to attend the National was established in each Zone to organise and deliver each QPL 78 teams entered with St Francis College winning the title in an entertaining final against Narangba Valley State High School. 19U and 17U championships in . Two of whom gained Competition. Winners of the divisions in each Zone then came selection as umpires in the Deakin University Australian Netball together to compete in the QPL State Finals held in Caloundra. Netball League. Queensland would like to thank all those who volunteered their time MARIE LITTLE SHIELD to ensure the QPL was able to be the great competition it was in 2018. Netball Queensland hosted the national Marie Little Shield for the • Netball Queensland continues to be represented by 3 of our experienced umpire coaches at National level. • 118 teams. first time; welcoming representative teams from NSW, VIC, SA, WA and NT. The Netball Queensland team performed well over the three- • 313 umpires achieved national badging. • 43 Associations. day competition, maintaining their national ranking of fourth. The highlight of the event was to see the gold medal match played as the • 25 PCYC Sport and Recreation Officers attended umpire • State Finals. curtain raiser to the Constellation Cup game between the Diamonds and Silver Ferns. Teams were recognised during the half time break development workshops. with Netball Queensland's Nicole Skerman awarded the competitions • Opens: Champions - Goodna defeated Northern Gold Coast. Netball Queensland Bench Officials Zac Dawes and Katrina Taylor were Most Valuable Player for the third year running. appointed to officiate at the Commonwealth Games. Development • 18U: Champions - Downey Park defeated Hinterland District. SOCIAL NETBALL opportunities for aspiring and progressing Bench Officials were provided at a pre-season Suncorp Super Netball weekend and the • 16U: Champions - Northern Gold Coast defeated Caboolture Monday nights with 5 division's and Wednesday nights with Vicki Wilson Finals weekend.

14 OUR VISION: To become a world-leading sports organisation, respected for transforming lives through Netball. OUR PURPOSE: We are a unifying leader responsible for the growth, sustainability and success of netball. 15 STRATEGIC PILLAR HIGH 02 PERFORMANCE

16 OUR PURPOSE: We are a unifying leader responsible for the growth, sustainability and success of netball. STRATEGIC FOCUS AREA 4: IDENTIFY, DEVELOP AND POLISH TALENTED were impacted by serious injuries to key players that ruled them out through their career, the program has developed a range of off court QUEENSLANDERS TO SUCCEED AT THE ELITE LEVEL. SUCCESS AT THE ELITE LEVEL of the Championships, despite this, both teams performed strongly skills to prepare them well for life as a professional athlete. INVOLVES NOT ONLY OUR ELITE PLAYERS, BUT OFFICIALS AS WELL. with the 17U Team placing 3rd. The 19U Team developed great resilience over the week, coming within two goals of all the top four THE LORNA JANE QUEENSLAND FIREBIRDS FINDING AND DEVELOPING DIAMONDS teams despite finishing fifth. Six players from the 17U Squad were The Lorna Jane Queensland Firebirds entered their 2nd year of the 2018 EMERGING TALENT PROGRAM (ETP) selected in the Australian 17U Squad and four players selected from Suncorp Super Netball (SSN) aiming to improve on their 5th place the 19U Squad. in 2017. Veteran and legend of the game, Laura Geitz returned, The Emerging Talent Program (ETP) was run over two phases in 2018 COACH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM Mahalia Cassidy returned from her ACL injury and young gun, Tara and just on 800 registrations were received from players to attend Hinchliffe, was elevated from Queensland Fusion. Gabi Simpson the 24 clinics run throughout the State from Cairns to the Gold Coast. While there was considerable focus on player development, another and Caitlyn Nevins were selected by the playing group as Captain In a new initiative in 2018, a 16U representative team was selected priority for 2018 was on coach and umpire development. The ETP and vice-Captain again in 2018. The Firebirds season was ultimately from each of the 12 regions to participate in the inaugural and highly clinics also had a coach and umpire development component and determined by 4 games where we lost, in the dying seconds, by 1 successful Nissan 16U State Titles held in Toowoomba in October many local coaches also attended each clinic to work with the Netball goal. After not making finals the previous year, the first time in 4 2018. Queensland appointed coach developers. Some of these coaches years, we made it back into 3rd position on the ladder after the home 2018 NISSAN 16U STATE TITLES have now picked up Head and Assistant Coach roles with the 16U and away rounds were completed. During the season there were State Titles Teams, building the base of quality, aspirational coaches in outstanding wins against Fever (who had been undefeated until they A member of the State 17U Selection panel was present at each ETP the system. In a departure from recent years, two Assistant Coaches played us), and great wins against all the teams who were above us on clinic around Queensland and worked with the 16U Head Coaches have been appointed to each team for 2019, providing additional the ladder during the season including defending and ultimately back from each region to identify and select 12 promising athletes in each opportunities for talented coaches to work at State level and to back premiers the , Vixens, region (born 2002 and 2003). Their brief was to identify players who reflecting the calibre of applicants for these roles. Over the past four GWS Giants and . Unfortunately, eventual winners, demonstrated both the on and off court attributes to be candidates years the number of applicants for the State roles has tripled which is the Lightning played their best game of the season in the semi-final to for selection in the 2019 Queensland 17U State Team. A squad of a good sign for coaching in Queensland. end the Firebirds season early with a one goal victory at the Brisbane 26 players was announced at the conclusion of the Nissan 16U State Entertainment Centre. Titles and it was great to see these players acknowledged in front of ELITE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM (EDP) their team mates, families, supporters and other teams. The value During the season, members of the Firebirds family achieved The EDP program is a shared initiative between Netball Queensland significant milestones, including: of this format was evident when the Capricorn Claws from Central and the Queensland Academy of Sport. Led by Jenny Brazel, the Queensland defeated several highly regarded metropolitan based Elite Development Program (EDP) provides holistic development • Romelda Aiken – 150 Games for the Firebirds. teams to make the semi-finals. The Grand Final was a showcase of and education for players considered to have the potential to one netball talent, a thrilling game that was eventually won by Brisbane day play in the Suncorp Super Netball and beyond. The emerging • Gretel Tippett – 50 Games for the Firebirds. East Tigers who showed great persistence in coming from behind to elite netball athletes selected in this group undergo a tailored • Jenny Brazil – 50 Games as Firebirds Assistant Coach. beat Suncoast Lynx by two. development program designed to ensure they are building for AUSTRALIAN DIAMONDS NISSAN 18U CITY V COUNTRY SERIES the on and off court requirements of an SSN contract. Players in this program have either been Nationally Talent Identified (NTID) or Queenslanders were well represented in the Australian Diamonds Alongside the Nissan 16U State Titles some of Queensland’s best 17 identified within Queensland as having potential to play at SSN level squads: and 18 year old’s competed in the 18U City v Country Series with or considered a special project player who may be switching sports or games played each evening, supported by the 16U teams. 2018 19U have some other unique or rare situation (3-5 years). The EDP program • 2018 Quad Series - Gabi Simpson (v/c), Gretel Tippett, Roselee Jencke State team players did not play in this series to allow State Selectors to focuses on the development of the individual athlete and includes (Assistant Coach). look at the next group of players who were on the fringe of selection a thorough technical, mental and physical development program, in 2018. While it was a 3-0 clean sweep for the City Team, Country combined with tailored education sessions. Education sessions span • – Gabi Simpson (v/c), Laura Geitz, challenged hard in game two, only losing by one and narrowly self-management, time management, brand awareness, internet Roselee Jencke (Assistant Coach). missing pushing the third game to a decider. Several players were safety, alcohol and drug awareness and guide players in establishing • Constellation Cup – Gabi Simpson, Gretel Tippett, Kim Jenner then added to the 2019 Queensland 19U Squad of 25 on the back of routines and performance behaviours which enable them to succeed (invitee) . strong performances at this event. at the highest level. It has been pleasing to observe the smooth transition of recent EDP graduates, Tara Hinchliffe, Kimberley Jenner • Fast 5 - Kim Jenner, Tara Hinchliffe, Nannette Rigoni (Manager) 2018 NATIONAL NETBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS and Tippah Dwan into the SSN and Firebirds environment. While the The Queensland 17U & 19U Teams had mixed results at the 2018 EDP program has only contributed a small amount to their technical National Netball Championships held in Adelaide in April. Both teams development along with the coaches who have supported them

OUR VISION: To become a world-leading sports organisation, respected for transforming lives through Netball. 17 STRATEGIC PILLAR GOVERNANCE 03 & DELIVERY

18 OUR PURPOSE: We are a unifying leader responsible for the growth, sustainability and success of netball. STRATEGIC FOCUS AREA 5: BUILD WORKFORCE CAPABILITY AND and more able to offer the right service or product at the right time. Netball Queensland or the broader netball community across the CAPACITY, REDUCING OUR RELIANCE ON VOLUNTEERS FOR DELIVERY 2019 Lorna Jane Queensland Firebirds memberships were sold via the state have received many forms of assistance, including: Netball Queensland continue to travel extensively to support, develop CRM and all participation data from MyNetball has been migrated. • Department of National Parks, Sport and Racing Funding; and engage with our Association members, players and officials 2019 will see the use of the CRM system expanded with improved across the state. Additionally, in the second half of 2018, Netball targeting of communications. • State Development Program (SDP), Queensland staff and Horizon Three committee members attended more than 20 Associations across the state conducting workshops and MyNetball ‘Self Registration’ continued to increase with 70,732 • Indigenous Sports Grants (Diamond Spirit) members or 97% of total registrations being completed in this way. gaining input into the proposed Biome. This was one of the largest • Championship Event Program collaborative undertakings ever conducted and the information This is a growth of 48% on an already strong result in 2017. • Commonwealth Games Funding Programs / Legacy Programs gained is invaluable in guiding the future direction of our sport. Netball Queensland welcomed Clermont Netball Association as an The 2018 Leaders Conference was again a key deliverable for this affiliated Association in 2018. • Asset Legacy Program Strategic Focus area. Wayne Goldsmith was keynote speaker and was Netball bodies throughout Queensland received funding under one of several thought provoking speakers that encouraged delegates Working Groups such as the Sport Governance and Leadership Group the Get Playing Places and Spaces program or the Get Going Clubs to challenge their traditional views of the sport and encouraged us to continue to strive for efficient and effective netball delivery for the program. think about what our sport could be in the future. benefit of players, administrators, staff and volunteers. These working groups have representatives from Netball Queensland, Associations Additionally, the Community Gambling Benefit Fund continues to An Organisational Design review was completed in addition to and Clubs and make recommendations designed to deliver a better provide extensive funding direct to local netball bodies. the gaining of the Populous Stadium Report to ensure that the netball experience. appropriate capability and structure was in place for the imminent Netball Queensland continues to deal extensively with Netball move to the new Queensland State Netball Centre in early 2019. STRATEGIC FOCUS AREA 7: PROVIDE ADVOCACY TO ENSURE QUEENSLAND Australia around topics as varied as Suncorp Super Netball, NETBALL HAS A STRONG VOICE WITH GOVERNMENT AND STAKEHOLDERS to insurance for participants at clubs and associations. These STRATEGIC FOCUS AREA 6: OPTIMISE THE DELIVERY OF NETBALL Netball Queensland continues to work with all levels of Government conversations are broad-ranging and often extend to other state- 2018 saw the purchase and implementation of Netball Queensland’s in support of our strategic purpose. This is completed in various forms based netball organisations. first Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system. The CRM of private meetings, speeches and presentations with and on behalf will enable Netball Queensland to better understand our netball of the broader Netball Queensland community. community in whatever capacity an individual engages with our sport

OUR VISION: To become a world-leading sports organisation, respected for transforming lives through Netball. 19 STRATEGIC PILLAR COMMERCIAL 04 & MARKETING

20 OUR PURPOSE: We are a unifying leader responsible for the growth, sustainability and success of netball. COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS – NETBALL QUEENSLAND partnerships, with the like of LION, Australian Catering Services, of engaging with our fan base. In 2018 we focussed on creating MERLO Coffee, Coca-Cola Amatil, AURA Sports, MAXWOOD Flooring compelling social media content, backed by strategic advertising STRATEGIC FOCUS AREA 8: DIVERSIFY AND INCREASE REVENUE STREAMS and more, all joining the Netball Queensland family. spend to attract new audiences and grow our owned channels. The Netball Queensland continues to identify and cultivate new and Firebirds’ following across Facebook and Instagram has increased by Whilst we understand the imperative for our commercial existing partners across a broad range of opportunities through the 31% over the past 2 years; seeing the Lorna Jane Queensland Firebirds partnerships to deliver clear value and benefit to both parties and Netball Queensland landscape, from participation and grassroots- hit number #1 in engagement across both channels when compared have implemented one of the most intelligent sports Customer based competitions and events, High Performance profile and with other Suncorp Super Netball teams in 2018. Netball Queensland Relationship Management systems to support the analysis and broadcast related assets, through to our newest asset, the Queensland increased average match attendance by 11% on prior year with an facilitation of best practice sponsorship management, we continue State Netball Centre. average of 4,973 fans attending each home game. to strive for the next level of commerciality, which includes a Principal, Premier, Major and all supporting official partners strategic approach to the identification of new revenue streams, the STRATEGIC FOCUS AREA 10: CULTIVATE A PASSIONATE, LOYAL AND HIGHLY are acknowledged in this report, however 2018 saw significant incremental and ongoing increase in the value of our IP, and a new ENGAGED FAN BASE OF THE FIREBIRDS introductions and uplifts and increased investment across a spectrum and fresh focus on delivering a personalised offering for each partner. In 2018, we continued to refine the value of membership packs to of categories from health insurance, fitness, hydration, Fast Moving create a ‘sea of purple’ at matches and Firebirds events. There was Around 30% of total revenue was derived through commercial Customer Goods , real estate and more. a focus on mobilising the Netball Queensland community with sponsorship investment, and we increased our focus on staff the launch of the inaugural Firebirds Association Membership and Lorna Jane continued their unique naming rights principal resources to support our commercial program, all whilst striving to growing our non-ticketed membership base in the regions. This was partnership of Netball Queensland, which is the only naming rights identify new, traditional and digital assets, and thereafter innovative all launched pre-season during the inaugural Suncorp #TeamGirls designation in the National league. We welcomed numerous new ways of delivering value to our partners. regional tour, with Firebirds visiting Cairns, Townsville and Mackay. We brands into the Netball Queensland partner suite, with International, grew our family significantly, with a total of 59 associations coming national and some local organisations all committing to new We maintain our focus also, around partnership with our on board for the Firebirds Association Membership and increasing partnerships. HCF was a notable addition, along with the University communities, including supporting them through local and state- non-ticketed membership by 140% on prior year. The Lorna Jane of Queensland who elevated to Premier Partner from Major, based funding opportunities from government, applying guidance Queensland Firebirds spent more time visiting associations to connect whilst AVJennings, Mount Franklin and Powerade, and Suncorp all and support in applications, along with developing submissions for with the local netball community. announced long term renewals. funding that focus on Netball Queensland programs in larger scale. A huge focus was placed on match day experience, bringing match HART Sport committed to naming rights of the newly created, STRATEGIC FOCUS AREA 9: DEVELOP ‘FIREBIRDS’ AS AN ICONIC SPORTS day to life with more entertainment, pyrotechnics, music and innovative State Netball competition which will be known as the BRAND 2018 activations resulting in an overall increase of game day satisfaction. HART Sapphire Series moving forward and will see the best local In 2018, we saw the continuation of the five-year ‘Free-to-Air’ This saw a lift in most metrics on the end of season brand survey. and at times global talent competing in the strongest state-based broadcast rights agreement with the Nine network. Two primetime Firebirds Net Promoter Score increased from 67 in 2017 to 79 in 2018. competition on the country. HART Sport will be joined by the likes matches each week were elevated to the main Nine station. This had 93% of Firebirds fans now consider themselves ‘avid fans’, an increase of MIZUNO, Lorna Jane, Powerade and Mount Franklin water in a positive impact on audiences with the Firebirds average viewership from 77% in prior year. 93% of attendees say they would come again, supporting this competition. increasing from 95,000 to 125,000, this is an overall increase of 290% (a 16% increase from prior year and well above national average). The addition of our new home – the Queensland State Netball Centre, since 2016. provided significant opportunities for new commercial revenue and Social media continues to evolve and is our number one way

OUR VISION: To become a world-leading sports organisation, respected for transforming lives through Netball. 21 STRATEGIC PILLAR STATE HOME 05 OF NETBALL

22 OUR PURPOSE: We are a unifying leader responsible for the growth, sustainability and success of netball. STRATEGIC FOCUS AREA 11: USE THE STATE HOME OF NETBALL AS A • Laying the playing surface for the Show Court, by the Venue Operations and Commercial departments to appoint PLATFORM TO DRIVE NEW AND IMPROVED REVENUE STREAMS founding vendors and partners, ensuring we capitalise on the new • Completion of the neighbouring Translink “Park ‘n’ Ride” facility, Following all of the planning and groundwork of the previous 12 commercial landscape that lies ahead and the exciting opportunities months, 2018 saw the Queensland State Netball Centre (QSNC) really • Installation of ancillary event and game day infrastructure including; that this venue can offer. begin to take shape. After years of hard work and lobbying by many large video screens, sound and audio systems. people across the netball community, a structure that will become There have been a number of key events locked in for the the “home” of netball in Queensland began to take on a true physical Netball Queensland engaged Populous Activate to develop a QSNC during 2019, including: Firebirds Suncorp Super Netball form. commercial and operations framework for the venue. This report Home Matches (April to August), 17/U & 19/U National Netball highlighted the need for the venue to be a commercially driven Championships (April), Sapphire Series Fixtures (June to October) and A number of key milestones occurred as part of the build, including: operation, while balancing the need to deliver on strategic objectives, the Harlem Globetrotters (April) with many more exciting events to • Pouring of the slabs, including participation growth and elite player development come. pathways. • Completion of the roof structure, We look forward to welcoming you all to the venue, whether as a The appointment of a General Manager – Venue Operations and participant in a competition or cheering on the Firebirds at a home • Laying the timber for the seven (7) community courts, a General Manager – Commercial during the second half of 2018, game, this is a venue for all of netball to be proud of. • Installation of the permanent 2000 seats in the show court, greatly assisted in Netball Queensland’s ability to deliver on this framework for the benefit of netball. • Commissioning of the 3000 retractable seats, With the building taking shape there has been a strong commitment • Signing of the Management Agreement,

OUR VISION: To become a world-leading sports organisation, respected for transforming lives through Netball. 23 FINANCIAL REPORT 2018

OUR PURPOSE: We are a unifying leader responsible for the growth, sustainability and success of netball. 24 NETBALL QUEENSLAND LIMITED ABN 58 429 487 881 FINANCIAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2018

25 OUR PURPOSE: We are a unifying leader responsible for the growth, sustainability and success of netball. NETBALL QUEENSLAND LIMITED ABN 58 429 487 881 FINANCIAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2018

OUR PURPOSE: We are a unifying leader responsible for the growth, sustainability and success of netball. 26 NETBALL QUEENSLAND LIMITED ABN 58 429 487 881 STATEMENT OF PROFIT OR LOSS AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2018

Full financial statements are provided to members.

27 OUR PURPOSE: We are a unifying leader responsible for the growth, sustainability and success of netball. OUR VISION: To become a world-leading sports organisation, respected for transforming lives through Netball. 28 NETBALL QUEENSLAND LIMITED ABN 58 429 487 881 STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2018

Full financial statements are provided to members.

29 OUR PURPOSE: We are a unifying leader responsible for the growth, sustainability and success of netball. NETBALL QUEENSLAND LIMITED ABN 58 429 487 881 STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS FOR THE PERIOD ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2018

Full financial statements are provided to members.

OUR VISION: To become a world-leading sports organisation, respected for transforming lives through Netball. 30 INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF NETBALL QUEENSLAND LIMITED Report on the Audit of the Financial Report been given to the directors of the Company, would be in the same terms if given to the directors Opinion as at the time of this auditor's report. We have audited the financial report of Netball Queensland Limited (the “Company”), which We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a comprises the statement of financial position as at 31 December 2018, the statement of profit or basis for our opinion. loss and other comprehensive income, statement of changes in equity and statement of cash flows for the year then ended, notes comprising a summary of significant accounting policies and other Responsibilities of the Directors for the Financial Report explanatory information, and the director’s declaration. The directors of the Company are responsible for the preparation of the financial report that gives In our opinion the financial report of the Company is in accordance with the Corporations Act a true and fair view in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards and the Corporations 2001, including: Act 2001 and for such internal control as the directors determine is necessary to enable the preparation of the financial report that gives a true and fair view and is free from material (i) giving a true and fair view of the Company’s financial position as at 31 December 2018 and of its misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. performance for the year then ended; and In preparing the financial report, the directors are responsible for assessing the ability of the (ii) complying with Australian Accounting Standards – Reduced Disclosure Requirements Company to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going (including the Australian Accounting Interpretations) and the Corporations Regulations 2001. concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the directors either intend to Basis for Opinion liquidate the Company or to cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so. We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. Our responsibilities Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Report under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial report as a whole Financial Report section of our report. We are independent of the Company in accordance with the is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's auditor independence requirements of the Corporations Act 2001 and the ethical requirements of report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a the Australian Professional and Ethical Standards Board’s APES 110 Code of Ethics for Professional guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with the Australian Auditing Standards will Accountants (the Code) that are relevant to our audit of the financial report in Australia. We have always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error also fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with the Code. and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected We confirm that the independence declaration required by the Corporations Act 2001, which has to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of this financial report

31 OUR PURPOSE: We are a unifying leader responsible for the growth, sustainability and success of netball. INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT- TO THE MEMBERS OF NETBALL QUEENSLAND LIMITED (Continued) Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Report (continued) We communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant As part of an audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards, we exercise professional deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit. judgement and maintain professional scepticism throughout the audit. We also: • Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial report, whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control. Bentleys Brisbane (Audit) Pty Ltd Chartered Accountants • • Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control. • Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related disclosures made by the directors. • Conclude on the appropriateness of the directors' use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists Stewart Douglas Director related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Company's ability to continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required Brisbane to draw attention in our auditor's report to the related disclosures in the financial report or, 27 February 2019 if such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor's report. However, future events or conditions may cause the Company to cease to continue as a going concern. • Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the financial report, including the disclosures, and whether the financial report represents the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation

OUR VISION: To become a world-leading sports organisation, respected for transforming lives through Netball. 32 "IT DOESN'T MATTER WHAT YOUR BACKGROUND IS OR WHERE YOU COME FROM, IF YOU HAVE DREAMS AND GOALS THAT'S ALL THAT MATTERS."

– SERENA WILLIAMS

33 OUR PURPOSE: We are a unifying leader responsible for the growth, sustainability and success of netball. OUR VISION: To become a world-leading sports organisation, respected for transforming lives through Netball. 34 QLD.NETBALL.COM.AU NETBALLQ FIREBIRDS.NET.AU

GAME ON: ANNUAL REPORT 2018